How David Lynch Made His First-Feature Film (Film Log #23)

The Film Log is a weekly video I record to share my journey making my first feature film, In Five Years. In these videos, I share what I learn and discover as I go about all aspects of being a first time indie filmmaker in today’s changing landscape. Find the full Film Log series here, and subscribe to the film’s newsletter

Today it seems like an evidence that Lynch would be a filmmaker. But Eraserhead’s making shows that it takes a lot of perseverance and a massive leap of faith.

It think what impacts me the most here, is that everybody keeps saying that it has never been easier to make film, and yet, not only it doesn’t seem that it’s taking less time, but it strongly feels like a film like Eraserhead would receive zero support in terms of distribution.

It’s become more and more obvious to me that making a film is essential, but a distribution deal offering space for a film to be seen overtime is key, especially if the film isn’t your three acts structure/hero’s journey typical story.

Overall, I’m not sure it’s a very good news to be honest. (As I type this, it doesn’t feel like one). But before all that, take a look at Lynch’s journey to make Eraserhead below. And if you want to read more, check Cagey Film’s exhaustive blog post about it.

Technical note: first attempt at making this type of narrated/animated video. Saying that I underestimated the time it took is an understatement. Hence its many defects in pace and visual. the content remains interesting though, and as far as learning curve is concerned: worth every hour of my time.

(In other words: give yourself a deadline to create, and do your best)

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About Nathalie

Nathalie is a story fabricator and storyteller at heart. She created mentorless.com in 2011 to share content she thought useful to craft and nurture her storytelling and creative skills. To see more about what she does when she is not here, check www.nathaliesejean.com

2 Comments

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It’s crazy how it was difficult for David Lynch to make Eraserhead, especially knowing now it’s such a cult film. I like the video, well done for a first attempt of this type of animated video. By the way, dat french accent 😉 (I’m french too).

Also, it’s the first time I post a comment on Mentorless but I follow now and then the articles posted and they’re always interesting so keep going and good luck for your film!

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